EP3218289A1 - Brush conveyor for transporting preforms - Google Patents

Brush conveyor for transporting preforms

Info

Publication number
EP3218289A1
EP3218289A1 EP15808703.1A EP15808703A EP3218289A1 EP 3218289 A1 EP3218289 A1 EP 3218289A1 EP 15808703 A EP15808703 A EP 15808703A EP 3218289 A1 EP3218289 A1 EP 3218289A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
preforms
brushes
neck
path
rails
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP15808703.1A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3218289B1 (en
Inventor
Sébastien FEVRE
Rui DE LIMA
Denis Turlotte
Frédéric WILLIG
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Sidel Participations SAS
Original Assignee
Sidel Participations SAS
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Sidel Participations SAS filed Critical Sidel Participations SAS
Priority to EP23176452.3A priority Critical patent/EP4234448A3/en
Publication of EP3218289A1 publication Critical patent/EP3218289A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3218289B1 publication Critical patent/EP3218289B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G15/00—Conveyors having endless load-conveying surfaces, i.e. belts and like continuous members, to which tractive effort is transmitted by means other than endless driving elements of similar configuration
    • B65G15/10—Conveyors having endless load-conveying surfaces, i.e. belts and like continuous members, to which tractive effort is transmitted by means other than endless driving elements of similar configuration comprising two or more co-operating endless surfaces with parallel longitudinal axes, or a multiplicity of parallel elements, e.g. ropes defining an endless surface
    • B65G15/12—Conveyors having endless load-conveying surfaces, i.e. belts and like continuous members, to which tractive effort is transmitted by means other than endless driving elements of similar configuration comprising two or more co-operating endless surfaces with parallel longitudinal axes, or a multiplicity of parallel elements, e.g. ropes defining an endless surface with two or more endless belts
    • B65G15/14—Conveyors having endless load-conveying surfaces, i.e. belts and like continuous members, to which tractive effort is transmitted by means other than endless driving elements of similar configuration comprising two or more co-operating endless surfaces with parallel longitudinal axes, or a multiplicity of parallel elements, e.g. ropes defining an endless surface with two or more endless belts the load being conveyed between the belts
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G15/00—Conveyors having endless load-conveying surfaces, i.e. belts and like continuous members, to which tractive effort is transmitted by means other than endless driving elements of similar configuration
    • B65G15/10—Conveyors having endless load-conveying surfaces, i.e. belts and like continuous members, to which tractive effort is transmitted by means other than endless driving elements of similar configuration comprising two or more co-operating endless surfaces with parallel longitudinal axes, or a multiplicity of parallel elements, e.g. ropes defining an endless surface
    • B65G15/105—Conveyors having endless load-conveying surfaces, i.e. belts and like continuous members, to which tractive effort is transmitted by means other than endless driving elements of similar configuration comprising two or more co-operating endless surfaces with parallel longitudinal axes, or a multiplicity of parallel elements, e.g. ropes defining an endless surface the surface being formed by two or more ropes
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G15/00—Conveyors having endless load-conveying surfaces, i.e. belts and like continuous members, to which tractive effort is transmitted by means other than endless driving elements of similar configuration
    • B65G15/60—Arrangements for supporting or guiding belts, e.g. by fluid jets
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G51/00—Conveying articles through pipes or tubes by fluid flow or pressure; Conveying articles over a flat surface, e.g. the base of a trough, by jets located in the surface
    • B65G51/02—Directly conveying the articles, e.g. slips, sheets, stockings, containers or workpieces, by flowing gases
    • B65G51/03—Directly conveying the articles, e.g. slips, sheets, stockings, containers or workpieces, by flowing gases over a flat surface or in troughs
    • B65G51/035—Directly conveying the articles, e.g. slips, sheets, stockings, containers or workpieces, by flowing gases over a flat surface or in troughs for suspended articles, e.g. bottles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G15/00—Conveyors having endless load-conveying surfaces, i.e. belts and like continuous members, to which tractive effort is transmitted by means other than endless driving elements of similar configuration
    • B65G15/22—Conveyors having endless load-conveying surfaces, i.e. belts and like continuous members, to which tractive effort is transmitted by means other than endless driving elements of similar configuration comprising a series of co-operating units
    • B65G15/26—Conveyors having endless load-conveying surfaces, i.e. belts and like continuous members, to which tractive effort is transmitted by means other than endless driving elements of similar configuration comprising a series of co-operating units extensible, e.g. telescopic
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G19/00—Conveyors comprising an impeller or a series of impellers carried by an endless traction element and arranged to move articles or materials over a supporting surface or underlying material, e.g. endless scraper conveyors
    • B65G19/02—Conveyors comprising an impeller or a series of impellers carried by an endless traction element and arranged to move articles or materials over a supporting surface or underlying material, e.g. endless scraper conveyors for articles, e.g. for containers
    • B65G19/025—Conveyors comprising an impeller or a series of impellers carried by an endless traction element and arranged to move articles or materials over a supporting surface or underlying material, e.g. endless scraper conveyors for articles, e.g. for containers for suspended articles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G2201/00—Indexing codes relating to handling devices, e.g. conveyors, characterised by the type of product or load being conveyed or handled
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G2207/00—Indexing codes relating to constructional details, configuration and additional features of a handling device, e.g. Conveyors
    • B65G2207/42—Soft elements to prevent damage to articles, e.g. bristles, foam

Definitions

  • the invention relates to the transport of articles, and more particularly to the transport of preforms of plastic containers such as PET.
  • a preform generally comprises a closed tubular body, at a lower end, with a hemispherical bottom, and a neck, usually threaded, which extends the body from an upper end thereof. Most preforms are also provided with a collar that separates the neck of the body and facilitates the handling of preforms.
  • a manufacturing cycle of a container requires many handling operations of the preform from which the container is to be manufactured. From a bulk packaging in a hopper (or a bowl, or any other container), the preform is successively extracted from the hopper, oriented (neck up or neck down), transferred to a heating unit (or oven), conveyed in the parcel therein to undergo thermal conditioning, and then transferred to a mold to be converted into a container by blow molding or stretch blow molding.
  • a heating unit or oven
  • the transport speed of the preforms during such a cycle is not constant.
  • the bulk packaging of the preforms in the hopper or bowl does not allow to feed directly at the output thereof (thereof) the heating unit.
  • a transport device provided with an endless belt which drives the preforms by friction, along a predetermined path (which can be at least locally linear).
  • the French patent FR 2956 652 or its US equivalent US 2012/312661 (SIDEL PARTICIPATIONS) describes a conveyor equipped with two endless belts, at least one of which comprises, at an active part in contact with the preforms, a natural material made of leather.
  • This solution which is currently commonly used, is satisfactory in that it allows to achieve the accumulation of preforms effectively and without damaging them.
  • the friction produces a dust formed of fine leather particles which tends to settle on the preforms and on the conveyor members.
  • leather is a natural material
  • the resulting pollution is not harmful, but it is not permissible to allow dust to accumulate on the conveyor, which must therefore undergo frequent cleaning.
  • a first object of the invention is to provide a method of transporting preforms that allows efficient accumulation thereof.
  • a second object of the invention is to provide a method of transporting preforms that allows a better wear resistance.
  • a third object of the invention is to provide a transport method that allows better resistance to heating.
  • a method of transporting preforms of plastic containers each having a tubular wall defining a body and a neck separated by a flange which projects radially from the wall by means of a device comprising at least an endless circulating element having an outer face and carrying a series of brushes which project from the outer face, adapted to come into contact with the preforms to drive them by friction along a path, this device comprising furthermore, a pair of rails spaced from one another, which together define at least a portion of the path of the preforms, these rails having coplanar bearing faces for the suspension by their collar of the neck-oriented preforms, the preforms being guided by means of a neck guide which extends perpendicular to the rails at a distance therefrom greater than or equal to a height of the neck of the preforms.
  • the brushes effectively drive the preforms by rubbing the end of their bristles. This friction generates little or no dust (and therefore little pollution), and brush wear remains slow when the material chosen (for example a nylon®) is resistant to frictional wear.
  • At least a portion of the brushes can extend under the rails to come into contact with the body of the preforms.
  • the device may further comprise, on at least part of the path, a lateral guide against which the element flowing is supported by an internal face opposite to the external face.
  • each brush comprises, for example, a row of tufts of superposed hairs.
  • each circulating element may comprise brushes along its entire length.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view from above of a preform transport device equipped with belts provided with brushes, according to a first embodiment in which the preforms are transported neck up;
  • Figure 2 is a detail view, on an enlarged scale, of the device of Figure 1;
  • Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a portion of a brush belt
  • Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the transport device, according to the sectional plane IV-IV of Figure 2;
  • FIG. 5 is a detail view in horizontal section of the transport device, according to the sectional plane V-V of Figure 4;
  • Figure 6 is a detail view in longitudinal section of the transport device, according to the sectional plane VI-VI of Figure 4;
  • Figure 7 is an enlarged detail view of an enlarged detail illustrating the driving of a preform through the bristles of a brush of a belt;
  • FIG. 8 is a sectional view similar to Figure 4, illustrating a second embodiment of the transport device, wherein the preforms are transported neck down.
  • FIG. 1 shows a device 1 for conveying (or conveying) preforms 2 of plastic containers, for example made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
  • PET polyethylene terephthalate
  • Each preform 2 has a tubular lateral wall 3 defining a body 4 and a neck 5.
  • the body 4 ends, at an end opposite the neck 5, by a hemispherical bottom 6.
  • the neck 5 forms a rim 7 through which the container is intended to be filled.
  • the neck 5 can be threaded to allow the screwing of a plug after filling.
  • each preform 2 also has an annular flange 8 used to facilitate the handling of preforms 2 (and also containers formed from these preforms 2).
  • the flange 8 extends to the junction between the body 4 and the neck 5, but this configuration is not limiting.
  • the collar could extend at an end opposite the bottom 6, so as to form the rim of the container.
  • the neck 5 is optional, so that the preform could be limited to a smooth body terminated at one end by a bottom and, at an opposite end, by a flange.
  • the flange 8 is not necessarily continuous; it can include several disjointed angular sectors.
  • the raw injection preforms 2 are initially stored in bulk in a container such as a hopper, from which they are extracted by known means (in a hopper, it is for example an elevator; a bowl, it is for example a rotating plate associated with a helical rail) while being oriented neck up or neck down.
  • a container such as a hopper
  • the preforms 2 are poured onto a linear support 9 (such as a rail in the case of preforms 2 oriented neck up, as shown in Figure 1) where they move by pushing each other. other.
  • systems such as blow guns may be provided to prevent jamming of preforms 2.
  • Preforms 2 misaligned at the outlet of the container are reintroduced into it by means of polarizers, so that the flow of preforms 2 out of the container is not constant. It As a result, the preforms 2 are not necessarily grouped on the linear support 9, spaced trains of preforms can then be formed, as illustrated in FIG. 1. In the illustrated configuration, where the support 9 is horizontal, an isolated train 10 preforms (right in Figure 1) does not advance as a next train 10 from the container does not come push. Alternatively, to promote the evacuation of the preforms 2 of the container, the support 9 can be inclined.
  • the preforms 2 coming out of the container are intended to be introduced into a heating unit in order to undergo thermal conditioning by exposure to sources of electromagnetic radiation (eg infrared), so as to be softened so as to be formed into containers by blowing or stretching blow in a forming unit equipped with molds in the footprint of the containers.
  • sources of electromagnetic radiation eg infrared
  • the preforms 2 are individually supported by gripping means (such as spinners or clamps).
  • gripping means such as spinners or clamps.
  • the start of the forming cycle which must produce containers at a rate of several tens of thousands of units per hour, is not subordinated to the presence of preforms 2, so that in the absence of one or more preform (s) in the stream of preforms coming out of (and therefore entering) the thermal conditioning unit, the forming unit rotates empty in the mold (s) supposed to host this (these) preform (s). This results in a waste of energy and a decrease in productivity.
  • a conveyor 1 as shown in Figure 1 is interposed between the container and the heating unit. It is a storage conveyor designed to, from spaced apart preform trains 2 from the container, form a continuous stream of adjacent preforms 2 to be individually supported.
  • the conveyor 1 comprises an endless circulating element 11.
  • the circulating element 11 is a belt, that is to say a continuous band, but it could be a chain, formed of a series of looped links articulated relative to each other. to others.
  • the circulating element 11 is a belt, which does not exclude another embodiment (in particular a chain).
  • the belt 11 runs on a pair of pulleys or gears, namely a driving wheel 12 and a follower wheel.
  • Each wheel 12, 13 is rotatably mounted on a frame 14 comprising a plate 15 which forms a horizontal plane of support for the belt 11.
  • the belt 11 has an inner face 16 and an opposite outer face 17. According to an embodiment illustrated in the figures, the inner face 16 is notched to engage the teeth of the wheels 12, 13. The outer face 17 forms a succession of crenellations 18. This configuration gives the belt 11 good flexibility.
  • the belt 11 is driven in displacement at a speed noted V1 in Figure 7.
  • the belt 11 carries a series of brushes 19 which protrude from the outer face 17.
  • each slot 18 carries a brush 19, which comprises a row of tufts 20 superposed with bristles 21.
  • the belt 11 is arranged to come into contact with the preforms 2 to drive them by friction along a path T.
  • this path T is not necessarily plane; it could also be curved.
  • this path T is both planar and linear and defines a so-called longitudinal direction, which extends in a substantially horizontal plane (with, if necessary, a small slope). It is termed transverse any direction both horizontal and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.
  • the belt 11 is preferably positioned so that the plane 22
  • the depth P of pass is between 0.5 and 3 mm, and for example of the order of 1 mm.
  • the conveyor 1 comprises two similar belts 11, arranged on either side of the path T. More precisely, the belts 11 present along the path T, parallel strands 24 (longitudinal in the illustrated example) to jointly drive the preforms 2 by friction, along diametrically opposite meridians on the preforms 2. This configuration limits the risk of proper rotation of the preforms 2 and provides a more efficient transmission of the kinetic energy of the (or each) belt 11 to the preforms 2.
  • the material of the bristles 21 is advantageously chosen so that the friction forces against the lateral wall 3 are sufficiently high to effectively transmit the kinetic energy of the belt 11 to the preforms 2, so that heating due to the friction remains measured (for the benefit of better control of the thermal conditioning of the preforms 2), so that the wear of the bristles 21 by friction against the side wall 3 is however relatively slow, and so that any scratches on the side wall 3 are imperceptible.
  • Polyamides, and more particularly Nylon® provide all of these advantages.
  • the low wear of the bristles 21 guarantees a long service life at the (or each) belt 11.
  • the bristles 21 tend, under the effect of their support against the lateral wall 3 of the preforms 2, to transmit to the belt 11 a transverse force which, if the -It remained free, would tend to do it to bend and consequently to move the brushes 19 away from the preforms 2 and thus to reduce the forces transmitted thereto.
  • the conveyor 1 to maintain a certain transverse stiffness of the (or each) belt 11 along the path T, and thus maintain a relatively high friction force, it is preferable to provide the conveyor 1 with a lateral guide 25, which is extends over at least part of the path T preforms 2, and against which the belt 11 is supported by its internal face 16.
  • the position of the guide 25 is adjustable transversely.
  • a horizontal portion 26 of the guide 25 is provided with oblong holes 27 in which are introduced screws 28 for fixing the guide 25 on the plate 15.
  • screws 28 By loosening the screws 28, it is possible to move the guide 25 transversely. In this way, it is possible to adjust the depth P of pass, and therefore the friction force applied by the brushes 19 to the preforms 2.
  • This adjustment also makes it possible to compensate over time the wear of the bristles 21 to maintain relatively constant the depth P of pass.
  • the conveyor 1 comprises a fixed support 29 which defines a flat support surface 30 for the preforms 2.
  • the preforms 2, provided with a collar 8, are oriented neck up.
  • the support 29 is in the form of a pair of rails 31 spaced apart from each other.
  • the rails 31 jointly define at least a portion of the path T of the preforms 2.
  • the rails 31 have coplanar upper support surfaces 30, allowing the suspension, by their flanges 8, preforms 2 oriented neck up.
  • the spacing between the rails 31 is slightly greater than the neck diameter of the preforms 2.
  • the clearance between the rails 31 and the body 4 of the preforms 2 is sufficient to allow the preforms 2 to slide without being wedged, while being sufficiently weak to prevent the passage of the flange 8 and the fall of the preforms 2.
  • At least a portion of the brushes 19 extends under the rails 31 to come into contact with the body 4 of the preforms 2. A portion of the brushes 19 could however extend above the rails 31 to rub against the neck 5.
  • the conveyor 1 preferably comprises a collar guide 32 which extends vertically above the rails 31 at a distance therefrom greater than or equal to a height of the neck 5 of the preforms 2, c that is to say that a gap is provided between the collar guide 32 and the preform of the blank 7.
  • This guide 32 has the function of preventing the preforms 2 from rising and the collars 8 preforms 2 do not overlap, so as to maintain constant (and equal to the diameter of the flange 8) the distance between two successive preforms 2.
  • the collar guide 32 is in the form of a bar with a rectangular section, which has a flat bottom face 33 remote from the rim 7 of the preforms 2 by a few tenths of a millimeter (1 to 2 mm at the most ).
  • the preforms 2 are oriented neck down (and where they may possibly be without a flange, although in the example shown in FIG. 8).
  • the support 29 is for example in the form of a plate on which the preforms 2 rest by their rim 7.
  • the brushes 19 extend above the plate 29 and rub against the body 4 and / or against the neck 5.
  • the support 29 could be in the form of a pair of rails on which the preforms 2 would rest by their collar (when they are provided).
  • the conveyor 1 may comprise a bottom guide 34 which extends vertically above the plate 29, at a distance thereof greater than or equal to an overall height of the preforms 2.
  • This guide 34 limits the risk of forward tilting of the preforms 2 under the effect of the friction forces induced by the brushes 2.
  • This guide 34 can be movable to accompany the preforms along their path and thus further limit the risk of failover.
  • the guide 34 may be in the form of an endless circulating band mounted between two pulleys.
  • slides 35 may be provided, positioned on either side of the body 4 and / or the neck 5.
  • the (or each) belt 11 may comprise brushes 19 along its length.
  • the implantation of the brushes 19 may be vertical or, alternatively, oblique (that is to say that the different tufts can be staggered).
  • the conveyor 1 can be equipped with tensioning rollers 36 to put the (or each) belt 11 under tension and thus avoid the undulations in the strand 24 along the path T and maintain a constant orientation of the bristles 21, for the benefit of the effectiveness of the drive of the preforms 2.
  • Each roller 36 tensioner is for example mounted on a plate 37 fixed in a transversely adjustable manner on the plate 15 of the conveyor 1.
  • the brushes 19 could be mounted on several independent superimposed belts, which would circulate for example at different speeds so as to maintain a permanent friction of the brushes 19 with the lateral wall 3 of the preforms.
  • the conveyor 1 may be equipped, as illustrated in FIG. 1, with one or more device (s) 38 for cleaning (or decontamination) brushes 19, functioning for example by suction, exposure to ultraviolet light or ionized air.
  • one or more device (s) 38 for cleaning (or decontamination) brushes 19 functioning for example by suction, exposure to ultraviolet light or ionized air.
  • the conveyor 1 may be equipped with at least one preform ejector, making it possible to extract from the stream of preforms circulating in the conveyor 1 any preform that is badly oriented and may cause a blockage or intermingling of the preforms 2 along of the path, likely to damage or break at least one of the components of the conveyor 1.
  • This ejector would be for example in the form of a movable section of the support 29, which would form a retractable door controlled by the detection of a or several misformed preform (s).

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) for transporting plastic-container preforms (2), said device (1) including an endless circulating element (11) having an outer surface (16) and being capable of moving the preforms (2) along a path (T) by rubbing against the preforms (2), said device (1) including a stationary mounting (29) defining a planar bearing surface (30) for the preforms (2), the circulating element (11) having a series of brushes (19) which extend projecting from the outer surface (16), capable of engaging with the preforms (2) in order to move same by rubbing.

Description

Convoyeur à brosses pour le transport de préformes  Brush conveyor for transporting preforms
L'invention a trait au transport d'articles, et plus particulièrement au transport de préformes de récipients en matière plastique tel que PET. The invention relates to the transport of articles, and more particularly to the transport of preforms of plastic containers such as PET.
Une préforme comprend généralement un corps tubulaire fermé, à une extrémité inférieure, par un fond hémisphérique, et un col, fileté d'ordinaire, qui prolonge le corps à partir d'une extrémité supérieure de celui-ci. La plupart des préformes sont également munies d'une collerette qui sépare le col du corps et qui facilite la manutention des préformes.  A preform generally comprises a closed tubular body, at a lower end, with a hemispherical bottom, and a neck, usually threaded, which extends the body from an upper end thereof. Most preforms are also provided with a collar that separates the neck of the body and facilitates the handling of preforms.
Un cycle de fabrication d'un récipient requiert de nombreuses opérations de manutention de la préforme à partir duquel le récipient est destiné à être fabriqué. A partir d'un conditionnement en vrac dans une trémie (ou un bol, ou tout autre conteneur), la préforme est successivement extraite de la trémie, orientée (col en haut ou col en bas), transférée vers une unité de chauffe (ou four), transportée au défilé dans celle-ci pour y subir un conditionnement thermique, puis encore transférée vers un moule pour y être transformée en récipient par soufflage ou étirage soufflage.  A manufacturing cycle of a container requires many handling operations of the preform from which the container is to be manufactured. From a bulk packaging in a hopper (or a bowl, or any other container), the preform is successively extracted from the hopper, oriented (neck up or neck down), transferred to a heating unit (or oven), conveyed in the parcel therein to undergo thermal conditioning, and then transferred to a mold to be converted into a container by blow molding or stretch blow molding.
La vitesse de transport des préformes au cours d'un tel cycle n'est pas constante. En particulier, le conditionnement en vrac des préformes dans la trémie ou le bol ne permet pas d'alimenter directement, en sortie de celle-ci (de celui-ci) l'unité de chauffe. On prévoit par conséquent, entre la trémie et l'unité de chauffe, une zone intermédiaire où les préformes sont temporairement accumulées pour permettre une alimentation en continu de l'unité de chauffe.  The transport speed of the preforms during such a cycle is not constant. In particular, the bulk packaging of the preforms in the hopper or bowl does not allow to feed directly at the output thereof (thereof) the heating unit. There is therefore provided, between the hopper and the heating unit, an intermediate zone where the preforms are temporarily accumulated to allow a continuous supply of the heating unit.
Pour réaliser cette accumulation, on emploie d'ordinaire un dispositif de transport muni d'une courroie sans fin qui entraîne les préformes par frottement, le long d'un trajet prédéterminé (qui peut être au moins localement linéaire).  To achieve this accumulation, usually employs a transport device provided with an endless belt which drives the preforms by friction, along a predetermined path (which can be at least locally linear).
Le brevet français FR 2956 652 ou son équivalent américain US 2012/312661 (SIDEL PARTICIPATIONS) décrit un convoyeur équipé de deux courroies sans fin, dont l'une au moins comporte, au niveau d'une partie active en contact avec les préformes, un matériau naturel constitué de cuir. Cette solution, qui est actuellement couramment utilisée, donne satisfaction dans la mesure où elle permet de réaliser l'accumulation des préformes de manière efficace et sans endommagement de celles- ci. The French patent FR 2956 652 or its US equivalent US 2012/312661 (SIDEL PARTICIPATIONS) describes a conveyor equipped with two endless belts, at least one of which comprises, at an active part in contact with the preforms, a natural material made of leather. This solution, which is currently commonly used, is satisfactory in that it allows to achieve the accumulation of preforms effectively and without damaging them.
Mais le frottement contre les préformes provoque, en premier lieu, une usure rapide du cuir, qui nécessite le remplacement fréquent de la courroie.  But the friction against the preforms causes, in the first place, a rapid wear of the leather, which requires the frequent replacement of the belt.
En deuxième lieu, le frottement produit une poussière formée de fines particules de cuir qui a tendance à se déposer sur les préformes et sur les organes du convoyeur. Le cuir étant un matériau naturel, la pollution qui en résulte n'est pas nocive, mais il n'est pas admissible de laisser s'accumuler la poussière sur le convoyeur, qui doit par conséquent subir de fréquents nettoyages.  Secondly, the friction produces a dust formed of fine leather particles which tends to settle on the preforms and on the conveyor members. As leather is a natural material, the resulting pollution is not harmful, but it is not permissible to allow dust to accumulate on the conveyor, which must therefore undergo frequent cleaning.
Un premier objectif de l'invention est de proposer un procédé de transport de préformes qui permette une accumulation efficace de celles-ci.  A first object of the invention is to provide a method of transporting preforms that allows efficient accumulation thereof.
Un deuxième objectif de l'invention est de proposer un procédé de transport de préformes qui permette une meilleure résistance à l'usure.  A second object of the invention is to provide a method of transporting preforms that allows a better wear resistance.
Un troisième objectif de l'invention est de proposer un procédé de transport qui permette une meilleure résistance à échauffement.  A third object of the invention is to provide a transport method that allows better resistance to heating.
A cet effet, il est proposé un procédé de transport de préformes de récipients en matière plastique ayant chacune une paroi tubulaire définissant un corps et un col séparés par une collerette qui fait radialement saillie de la paroi, au moyen d'un dispositif comprenant au moins un élément circulant sans fin ayant une face externe et portant une série de brosses qui s'étendent en saillie de la face externe, aptes à venir au contact des préformes pour entraîner celles-ci par frottement le long d'un trajet, ce dispositif comprenant en outre une paire de rail écartés l'un de l'autre, qui définissent conjointement au moins une partie du trajet des préformes, ces rails ayant des faces d'appui coplanaires pour la suspension par leur collerette des préformes orientées col en haut, les préformes étant guidées au moyen d'un guide de col qui s'étend à l'aplomb des rails à une distance de ceux-ci supérieure ou égale à une hauteur du col des préformes.  For this purpose, there is provided a method of transporting preforms of plastic containers each having a tubular wall defining a body and a neck separated by a flange which projects radially from the wall, by means of a device comprising at least an endless circulating element having an outer face and carrying a series of brushes which project from the outer face, adapted to come into contact with the preforms to drive them by friction along a path, this device comprising furthermore, a pair of rails spaced from one another, which together define at least a portion of the path of the preforms, these rails having coplanar bearing faces for the suspension by their collar of the neck-oriented preforms, the preforms being guided by means of a neck guide which extends perpendicular to the rails at a distance therefrom greater than or equal to a height of the neck of the preforms.
Les brosses entraînent efficacement les préformes par frottement de l'extrémité de leurs poils. Ce frottement génère peu ou pas de poussière (et donc peu de pollution), et l'usure des brosses demeure lente lorsque le matériau choisi (par exemple un Nylon®) est résistant à l'usure par frottement. The brushes effectively drive the preforms by rubbing the end of their bristles. This friction generates little or no dust (and therefore little pollution), and brush wear remains slow when the material chosen (for example a nylon®) is resistant to frictional wear.
Au moins une partie des brosses peut s'étendre sous les rails pour venir au contact du corps des préformes.  At least a portion of the brushes can extend under the rails to come into contact with the body of the preforms.
Le dispositif peut en outre comprendre, sur une partie au moins du trajet, un guide latéral contre lequel s'appuie l'élément circulant par une face interne opposée à la face externe.  The device may further comprise, on at least part of the path, a lateral guide against which the element flowing is supported by an internal face opposite to the external face.
Par ailleurs, chaque brosse comprend par exemple une rangée de touffes de poils superposées.  In addition, each brush comprises, for example, a row of tufts of superposed hairs.
De même, chaque élément circulant peut comprendre des brosses sur toute sa longueur.  Likewise, each circulating element may comprise brushes along its entire length.
D'autres objets et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lumière de la description d'un mode de réalisation, faite ci-après en référence aux dessins annexés dans lesquels :  Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent in the light of the description of an embodiment, given hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
- la figure 1 est une vue en perspective de dessus d'un dispositif de transport de préformes équipé de courroies munies de brosses, selon un premier mode de réalisation dans lequel les préformes sont transportées col en haut ; - Figure 1 is a perspective view from above of a preform transport device equipped with belts provided with brushes, according to a first embodiment in which the preforms are transported neck up;
la figure 2 est une vue de détail, à échelle agrandie, du dispositif de la figure 1 ;  Figure 2 is a detail view, on an enlarged scale, of the device of Figure 1;
la figure 3 est une vue en perspective montrant une portion d'une courroie à brosses ;  Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a portion of a brush belt;
la figure 4 est une vue en coupe transversale du dispositif de transport, selon le plan de coupe IV-IV de la figure 2 ;  Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the transport device, according to the sectional plane IV-IV of Figure 2;
- la figure 5 est une vue de détail en coupe horizontale du dispositif de transport, selon le plan de coupe V-V de la figure 4 ; - Figure 5 is a detail view in horizontal section of the transport device, according to the sectional plane V-V of Figure 4;
la figure 6 est une vue de détail en coupe longitudinale du dispositif de transport, selon le plan de coupe VI-VI de la figure 4 ; la figure 7 est une vue en coup de détail, à échelle agrandie, illustrant l'entraînement d'une préforme par les poils d'une brosse d'une courroie ;  Figure 6 is a detail view in longitudinal section of the transport device, according to the sectional plane VI-VI of Figure 4; Figure 7 is an enlarged detail view of an enlarged detail illustrating the driving of a preform through the bristles of a brush of a belt;
la figure 8 est une vue en coupe similaire à la figure 4, illustrant un deuxième mode de réalisation du dispositif de transport, dans laquelle les préformes sont transportées col en bas. Sur la figure 1 est représenté un dispositif 1 de transport (ou convoyeur) de préformes 2 de récipients en matière plastique, par exemple en polyéthylène téréphtalate (PET). Figure 8 is a sectional view similar to Figure 4, illustrating a second embodiment of the transport device, wherein the preforms are transported neck down. FIG. 1 shows a device 1 for conveying (or conveying) preforms 2 of plastic containers, for example made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
Chaque préforme 2 présente une paroi 3 latérale tubulaire définissant un corps 4 et un col 5. Le corps 4 se termine, à une extrémité opposée au col 5, par un fond 6 hémisphérique. Le col 5 forme un buvant 7 par lequel le récipient est destiné à être rempli. Le col 5 peut être fileté pour permettre le vissage d'un bouchon après ce remplissage.  Each preform 2 has a tubular lateral wall 3 defining a body 4 and a neck 5. The body 4 ends, at an end opposite the neck 5, by a hemispherical bottom 6. The neck 5 forms a rim 7 through which the container is intended to be filled. The neck 5 can be threaded to allow the screwing of a plug after filling.
Selon un mode de réalisation illustré sur les figures, chaque préforme 2 présente en outre une collerette 8 annulaire mise à profit pour faciliter la manutention des préformes 2 (et également des récipients formés à partir de ces préformes 2).  According to an embodiment illustrated in the figures, each preform 2 also has an annular flange 8 used to facilitate the handling of preforms 2 (and also containers formed from these preforms 2).
Dans l'exemple illustré, la collerette 8 s'étend à la jonction entre le corps 4 et le col 5, mais cette configuration n'est pas limitative. En particulier, la collerette pourrait s'étendre à une extrémité opposée au fond 6, de sorte à former le buvant du récipient. De même, le col 5 est facultatif, de sorte que la préforme pourrait se limiter à un corps lisse terminé à une extrémité par un fond et, à une extrémité opposée, par une collerette.  In the example shown, the flange 8 extends to the junction between the body 4 and the neck 5, but this configuration is not limiting. In particular, the collar could extend at an end opposite the bottom 6, so as to form the rim of the container. Similarly, the neck 5 is optional, so that the preform could be limited to a smooth body terminated at one end by a bottom and, at an opposite end, by a flange.
En outre, la collerette 8 n'est pas nécessairement continue ; elle peut comprendre plusieurs secteurs angulaires disjoints.  In addition, the flange 8 is not necessarily continuous; it can include several disjointed angular sectors.
De manière classique, les préformes 2 brutes d'injection sont initialement stockées en vrac dans un conteneur tel qu'une trémie, dont elles sont extraites par des moyens connus (dans une trémie, il s'agit par exemple d'un élévateur ; dans un bol, il s'agit par exemple d'un plateau rotatif associé à un rail hélicoïdal) tout en étant orientées col en haut ou col en bas. A la sortie du conteneur, les préformes 2 sont déversées sur un support 9 linéaire (tel qu'un rail dans le cas de préformes 2 orientées col en haut, comme illustré sur la figure 1) où elles se déplacent en se poussant les unes les autres. Dans certaines zones critiques (notamment à la jonction entre le conteneur et le support 9), on peut prévoir des systèmes (tels que des soufflettes) destinés à éviter le coincement de préformes 2.  In a conventional manner, the raw injection preforms 2 are initially stored in bulk in a container such as a hopper, from which they are extracted by known means (in a hopper, it is for example an elevator; a bowl, it is for example a rotating plate associated with a helical rail) while being oriented neck up or neck down. At the outlet of the container, the preforms 2 are poured onto a linear support 9 (such as a rail in the case of preforms 2 oriented neck up, as shown in Figure 1) where they move by pushing each other. other. In certain critical areas (especially at the junction between the container and the support 9), systems (such as blow guns) may be provided to prevent jamming of preforms 2.
Les préformes 2 mal orientées à la sortie du conteneur sont réintroduites dans celui-ci au moyen de détrompeurs, de sorte que le flux de préformes 2 sortant du conteneur n'est pas constant. Il en résulte que les préformes 2 ne sont pas nécessairement groupées sur le support 9 linéaire, des trains 10 espacés de préformes pouvant alors se former, comme illustré sur la figure 1. Dans la configuration illustrée, où le support 9 est horizontal, un train 10 isolé de préformes (à droite sur la figure 1) n'avance pas tant qu'un train 10 suivant issu du conteneur ne vient pas le pousser. En variante, pour favoriser l'évacuation des préformes 2 du conteneur, le support 9 peut être incliné. Preforms 2 misaligned at the outlet of the container are reintroduced into it by means of polarizers, so that the flow of preforms 2 out of the container is not constant. It As a result, the preforms 2 are not necessarily grouped on the linear support 9, spaced trains of preforms can then be formed, as illustrated in FIG. 1. In the illustrated configuration, where the support 9 is horizontal, an isolated train 10 preforms (right in Figure 1) does not advance as a next train 10 from the container does not come push. Alternatively, to promote the evacuation of the preforms 2 of the container, the support 9 can be inclined.
Les préformes 2 sortant du conteneur sont destinées à être introduites dans une unité de chauffe pour y subir un conditionnement thermique par exposition à des sources de rayonnement électromagnétique (par ex. infrarouge), de sorte à être ramollies en vue d'être formées en récipients par soufflage ou étirage soufflage dans une unité de formage équipée de moules à l'empreinte des récipients.  The preforms 2 coming out of the container are intended to be introduced into a heating unit in order to undergo thermal conditioning by exposure to sources of electromagnetic radiation (eg infrared), so as to be softened so as to be formed into containers by blowing or stretching blow in a forming unit equipped with molds in the footprint of the containers.
De l'entrée de l'unité de conditionnement thermique à l'unité de formage, les préformes 2 sont prises en charge individuellement par des moyens de préhension (tels que des tournettes ou des pinces). La mise en route du cycle de formage, qui doit produire des récipients à une cadence de plusieurs dizaines de milliers d'unité par heure, n'est pas subordonnée à la présence de préformes 2, de sorte qu'en l'absence d'une ou plusieurs préforme(s) dans le flux de préformes sortant de (et donc entrant dans) l'unité de conditionnement thermique, l'unité de formage tourne à vide dans le(s) moule(s) supposé(s) accueillir cette (ces) préforme(s). Il en résulte un gaspillage d'énergie et une diminution de la productivité.  From the input of the thermal conditioning unit to the forming unit, the preforms 2 are individually supported by gripping means (such as spinners or clamps). The start of the forming cycle, which must produce containers at a rate of several tens of thousands of units per hour, is not subordinated to the presence of preforms 2, so that in the absence of one or more preform (s) in the stream of preforms coming out of (and therefore entering) the thermal conditioning unit, the forming unit rotates empty in the mold (s) supposed to host this (these) preform (s). This results in a waste of energy and a decrease in productivity.
C'est pourquoi un convoyeur 1 tel que représenté sur la figure 1 est interposé entre le conteneur et l'unité de chauffe. Il s'agit d'un convoyeur à accumulation conçu pour, à partir de trains 10 de préformes 2 espacés issus du conteneur, former un flux continu de préformes 2 adjacentes destinées à être prises en charge individuellement.  This is why a conveyor 1 as shown in Figure 1 is interposed between the container and the heating unit. It is a storage conveyor designed to, from spaced apart preform trains 2 from the container, form a continuous stream of adjacent preforms 2 to be individually supported.
Le convoyeur 1 comprend un élément 11 circulant sans fin. Dans l'exemple illustré, l'élément 11 circulant est une courroie, c'est-à-dire une bande continue, mais il pourrait s'agir d'une chaîne, formée d'une série bouclée de maillons articulés les uns par rapport aux autres. Dans ce qui suit, on suppose que l'élément 11 circulant est une courroie, ce qui n'exclut pas une autre forme de réalisation (en particulier une chaîne). Comme illustré, la courroie 11 circule sur une paire de poulies ou de roues dentées, à savoir une roue 12 motrice et une roue 13 suiveuse. Chaque roue 12, 13 est montée en rotation sur un bâti 14 comprenant un plateau 15 qui forme un plan horizontal d'appui pour la courroie 11. The conveyor 1 comprises an endless circulating element 11. In the illustrated example, the circulating element 11 is a belt, that is to say a continuous band, but it could be a chain, formed of a series of looped links articulated relative to each other. to others. In what follows, it is assumed that the circulating element 11 is a belt, which does not exclude another embodiment (in particular a chain). As illustrated, the belt 11 runs on a pair of pulleys or gears, namely a driving wheel 12 and a follower wheel. Each wheel 12, 13 is rotatably mounted on a frame 14 comprising a plate 15 which forms a horizontal plane of support for the belt 11.
La courroie 11 présente une face 16 interne et une face 17 externe opposées. Selon un mode de réalisation illustré sur les figures, la face 16 interne est crantée pour venir en prise avec les dents des roues 12, 13. La face 17 externe forme quant à elle une succession de créneaux 18. Cette configuration confère à la courroie 11 une bonne souplesse.  The belt 11 has an inner face 16 and an opposite outer face 17. According to an embodiment illustrated in the figures, the inner face 16 is notched to engage the teeth of the wheels 12, 13. The outer face 17 forms a succession of crenellations 18. This configuration gives the belt 11 good flexibility.
La courroie 11 est entraînée en déplacement à une vitesse notée V1 sur la figure 7. La courroie 11 porte une série de brosses 19 qui s'étendent en saillie de la face 17 externe. Dans l'exemple illustré, chaque créneau 18 porte une brosse 19, qui comprend une rangée de touffes 20 superposées de poils 21.  The belt 11 is driven in displacement at a speed noted V1 in Figure 7. The belt 11 carries a series of brushes 19 which protrude from the outer face 17. In the illustrated example, each slot 18 carries a brush 19, which comprises a row of tufts 20 superposed with bristles 21.
La courroie 11 est agencée pour venir au contact des préformes 2 pour entraîner celles-ci par frottement le long d'un trajet T. Compte tenu de la souplesse de la courroie 11, ce trajet T n'est pas nécessairement plan ; il pourrait en outre être courbe. Toutefois, dans l'exemple illustré, ce trajet T est à la fois plan et linéaire et définit une direction dite longitudinale, qui s'étend dans un plan sensiblement horizontal (avec, le cas échéant, une faible pente). On qualifie de transversale toute direction à la fois horizontale et perpendiculaire à la direction longitudinale.  The belt 11 is arranged to come into contact with the preforms 2 to drive them by friction along a path T. Given the flexibility of the belt 11, this path T is not necessarily plane; it could also be curved. However, in the illustrated example, this path T is both planar and linear and defines a so-called longitudinal direction, which extends in a substantially horizontal plane (with, if necessary, a small slope). It is termed transverse any direction both horizontal and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.
La courroie 11 est de préférence positionnée pour que le plan 22 The belt 11 is preferably positioned so that the plane 22
(matérialisé en trait pointillé sur la figure 7) balayé par les extrémités des poils 21 soit décalé, vers l'intérieur des préformes 2, du plan 23 (matérialisé par le trait plein sur la figure 7) balayé par la partie du corps 4 des préformes 2 la plus proche de la courroie 11. Il résulte de ce décalage, dénommé profondeur de passe des brosses 19 et noté P sur la figure 7, que les poils 21 de chaque touffe 20 viennent, au cours du déplacement de la courroie 11, frotter contre la paroi 3 latérale de la préforme 2. Par leur souplesse, les poils 21 subissent, au contact de la paroi 3, une flexion qui met les poils 21 sous tension et augmente de ce fait l'effort exercé par chaque touffe 20 sur la paroi 3, tendant à entraîner la préforme 2 en mouvement. Selon un mode préféré de réalisation, la profondeur P de passe est comprise entre 0,5 et 3 mm, et par exemple de l'ordre de 1 mm. (shown in dotted line in FIG. 7) swept by the ends of the bristles 21 is shifted, towards the inside of the preforms 2, of the plane 23 (represented by the solid line in FIG. 7) swept by the body part 4 of the preforms 2 closest to the belt 11. It results from this shift, referred to as the depth of pass of the brushes 19 and noted P in FIG. 7, that the bristles 21 of each tuft 20 come, during the displacement of the belt 11, rubbing against the lateral wall 3 of the preform 2. By their flexibility, the bristles 21 undergo, in contact with the wall 3, a bending which puts the bristles 21 under tension and thereby increases the force exerted by each tuft 20 on the wall 3, tending to drive the preform 2 in motion. According to a preferred mode of realization, the depth P of pass is between 0.5 and 3 mm, and for example of the order of 1 mm.
Comme il se produit un glissement des poils 21 sur la paroi 3 latérale, une partie de l'énergie cinétique de la courroie 11 est dissipée à l'interface entre les poils 21 et la paroi latérale 3, de sorte que la vitesse, notée V2, de déplacement des préformes 2, est inférieure à la vitesse V1 de déplacement de la courroie 11.  As there is a sliding of the bristles 21 on the side wall 3, part of the kinetic energy of the belt 11 is dissipated at the interface between the bristles 21 and the side wall 3, so that the speed, noted V2 of displacement of the preforms 2 is less than the speed V1 of displacement of the belt 11.
On pourrait prévoir une unique courroie 11 qui entraînerait les préformes 2 en venant frotter contre elles d'un seul côté. Mais dans une telle configuration, il peut se produire une rotation propre des préformes 2 autour de leur axe, susceptible de diminuer leur vitesse V2 de déplacement.  One could provide a single belt 11 which would cause the preform 2 by rubbing against them on one side. But in such a configuration, it can occur a clean rotation of the preforms 2 about their axis, may reduce their speed V2 displacement.
C'est pourquoi, selon un mode de réalisation préféré illustré sur les figures 1, 2, 4 et 5, le convoyeur 1 comprend deux courroies 11 similaires, disposées de part et d'autre du trajet T. Plus précisément, les courroies 11 présentent, le long du trajet T, des brins 24 parallèles (longitudinaux dans l'exemple illustré) pour entraîner conjointement les préformes 2 par frottement, le long de méridiennes diamétralement opposées sur les préformes 2. Cette configuration limite le risque de rotation propre des préformes 2 et procure une transmission plus efficace de l'énergie cinétique de la (ou chaque) courroie 11 aux préformes 2.  Therefore, according to a preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 1, 2, 4 and 5, the conveyor 1 comprises two similar belts 11, arranged on either side of the path T. More precisely, the belts 11 present along the path T, parallel strands 24 (longitudinal in the illustrated example) to jointly drive the preforms 2 by friction, along diametrically opposite meridians on the preforms 2. This configuration limits the risk of proper rotation of the preforms 2 and provides a more efficient transmission of the kinetic energy of the (or each) belt 11 to the preforms 2.
Le matériau des poils 21 est avantageusement choisi pour que les efforts de frottement contre la paroi 3 latérale soient suffisamment élevés pour transmettre efficacement aux préformes 2 l'énergie cinétique de la courroie 11, pour que échauffement dû au frottement demeure mesuré (au bénéfice d'une meilleure maîtrise du conditionnement thermique des préformes 2), pour que l'usure des poils 21 par frottement contre la paroi 3 latérale soit cependant relativement lente, et pour que les éventuelles rayures sur la paroi 3 latérale soient imperceptibles. Les polyamides, et plus particulièrement le Nylon®, procurent l'ensemble de ces avantages. La faible usure des poils 21 garantit une durée de vie importante à la (ou chaque) courroie 11.  The material of the bristles 21 is advantageously chosen so that the friction forces against the lateral wall 3 are sufficiently high to effectively transmit the kinetic energy of the belt 11 to the preforms 2, so that heating due to the friction remains measured (for the benefit of better control of the thermal conditioning of the preforms 2), so that the wear of the bristles 21 by friction against the side wall 3 is however relatively slow, and so that any scratches on the side wall 3 are imperceptible. Polyamides, and more particularly Nylon®, provide all of these advantages. The low wear of the bristles 21 guarantees a long service life at the (or each) belt 11.
Compte tenu de la relative souplesse de la (ou chaque) courroie 11, les poils 21 ont tendance, sous l'effet de leur appui contre la paroi 3 latérale des préformes 2, à transmettre à la courroie 11 un effort transversal qui, si celle-ci demeurait libre, aurait tendance à la faire fléchir et par conséquent à éloigner les brosses 19 des préformes 2 et donc à diminuer les efforts transmis à celles-ci. Given the relative flexibility of the (or each) belt 11, the bristles 21 tend, under the effect of their support against the lateral wall 3 of the preforms 2, to transmit to the belt 11 a transverse force which, if the -It remained free, would tend to do it to bend and consequently to move the brushes 19 away from the preforms 2 and thus to reduce the forces transmitted thereto.
Aussi, pour maintenir une certaine rigidité transversale de la (ou chaque) courroie 11 le long du trajet T, et ainsi maintenir un effort de frottement relativement important, il est préférable de munir le convoyeur 1 d'un guide 25 latéral, qui s'étend sur une partie au moins du trajet T des préformes 2, et contre lequel la courroie 11 s'appuie par sa face 16 interne.  Also, to maintain a certain transverse stiffness of the (or each) belt 11 along the path T, and thus maintain a relatively high friction force, it is preferable to provide the conveyor 1 with a lateral guide 25, which is extends over at least part of the path T preforms 2, and against which the belt 11 is supported by its internal face 16.
Selon un mode de réalisation illustré sur les figures 2, 4 et 5, la position du guide 25 est réglable transversalement. A cet effet, une partie 26 horizontale du guide 25 est pourvue de trous 27 oblongs dans lesquels sont introduites des vis 28 de fixation du guide 25 sur le plateau 15. En desserrant les vis 28, il est possible de mouvoir transversalement le guide 25. De la sorte, il est possible de régler la profondeur P de passe, et donc l'effort de frottement appliqué par les brosses 19 aux préformes 2. Ce réglage permet également de compenser au fil du temps l'usure des poils 21 pour maintenir relativement constante la profondeur P de passe.  According to an embodiment illustrated in Figures 2, 4 and 5, the position of the guide 25 is adjustable transversely. For this purpose, a horizontal portion 26 of the guide 25 is provided with oblong holes 27 in which are introduced screws 28 for fixing the guide 25 on the plate 15. By loosening the screws 28, it is possible to move the guide 25 transversely. In this way, it is possible to adjust the depth P of pass, and therefore the friction force applied by the brushes 19 to the preforms 2. This adjustment also makes it possible to compensate over time the wear of the bristles 21 to maintain relatively constant the depth P of pass.
Comme on le voit sur les figures 2, 4 et 8, le convoyeur 1 comprend un support 29 fixe qui définit une face 30 plane d'appui pour les préformes 2.  As can be seen in FIGS. 2, 4 and 8, the conveyor 1 comprises a fixed support 29 which defines a flat support surface 30 for the preforms 2.
Selon un premier mode de réalisation, illustré sur les figures 4 et 6, les préformes 2, pourvues d'une collerette 8, sont orientées col en haut. Le support 29 se présente sous forme d'une paire de rails 31 écartés l'un de l'autre. Les rails 31 définissent conjointement au moins une partie du trajet T des préformes 2. Les rails 31 présentent des faces 30 supérieures d'appui coplanaires, permettant la suspension, par leurs collerettes 8, des préformes 2 orientées col en haut. L'écartement entre les rails 31 est légèrement supérieur au diamètre sous col des préformes 2. Le jeu entre les rails 31 et le corps 4 des préformes 2 est suffisant pour permettre le glissement des préformes 2 sans coincement, tout en étant suffisamment faible pour empêcher le passage de la collerette 8 et la chute des préformes 2.  According to a first embodiment, illustrated in Figures 4 and 6, the preforms 2, provided with a collar 8, are oriented neck up. The support 29 is in the form of a pair of rails 31 spaced apart from each other. The rails 31 jointly define at least a portion of the path T of the preforms 2. The rails 31 have coplanar upper support surfaces 30, allowing the suspension, by their flanges 8, preforms 2 oriented neck up. The spacing between the rails 31 is slightly greater than the neck diameter of the preforms 2. The clearance between the rails 31 and the body 4 of the preforms 2 is sufficient to allow the preforms 2 to slide without being wedged, while being sufficiently weak to prevent the passage of the flange 8 and the fall of the preforms 2.
Dans ce mode de réalisation, au moins une partie des brosses 19 (toutes les brosses 19 dans l'exemple illustré sur la figure 4) s'étend sous les rails 31 pour venir au contact du corps 4 des préformes 2. Une partie des brosses 19 pourrait toutefois s'étendre au-dessus des rails 31 pour venir frotter contre le col 5. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the brushes 19 (all the brushes 19 in the example illustrated in FIG. 4) extends under the rails 31 to come into contact with the body 4 of the preforms 2. A portion of the brushes 19 could however extend above the rails 31 to rub against the neck 5.
Dans ce premier mode de réalisation, le convoyeur 1 comprend de préférence un guide 32 de col qui s'étend à l'aplomb des rails 31 à une distance de ceux-ci supérieure ou égale à une hauteur du col 5 des préformes 2, c'est-à-dire qu'un interstice est ménagé entre le guide 32 de col et le buvant 7 de préformes 2. Ce guide 32 de col a pour fonction d'éviter que les préformes 2 ne se soulèvent et que les collerettes 8 des préformes 2 ne se chevauchent, de sorte à maintenir constante (et égale au diamètre de la collerette 8) la distance entre deux préformes 2 successives. Dans l'exemple illustré, le guide 32 de col se présente sous forme d'une barre à section rectangulaire, qui présente une face 33 inférieure plane distante du buvant 7 des préformes 2 de quelques dixièmes de millimètres (1 à 2 mm tout au plus).  In this first embodiment, the conveyor 1 preferably comprises a collar guide 32 which extends vertically above the rails 31 at a distance therefrom greater than or equal to a height of the neck 5 of the preforms 2, c that is to say that a gap is provided between the collar guide 32 and the preform of the blank 7. This guide 32 has the function of preventing the preforms 2 from rising and the collars 8 preforms 2 do not overlap, so as to maintain constant (and equal to the diameter of the flange 8) the distance between two successive preforms 2. In the example shown, the collar guide 32 is in the form of a bar with a rectangular section, which has a flat bottom face 33 remote from the rim 7 of the preforms 2 by a few tenths of a millimeter (1 to 2 mm at the most ).
Selon un deuxième mode de réalisation (illustré sur la figure 8), les préformes 2 sont orientées col en bas (et où elles peuvent éventuellement être dépourvues de collerette, bien qu'en disposant dans l'exemple illustré sur la figure 8). Dans ce cas, le support 29 se présente par exemple sous forme d'une plaque sur laquelle les préformes 2 reposent par leur buvant 7. Dans cette configuration, les brosses 19 s'étendent au-dessus de la plaque 29 et viennent frotter contre le corps 4 et/ou contre le col 5. En variante, le support 29 pourrait se présenter sous forme d'une paire de rails sur lesquels les préformes 2 reposeraient par leur collerette (lorsqu'elles en sont pourvues).  According to a second embodiment (illustrated in FIG. 8), the preforms 2 are oriented neck down (and where they may possibly be without a flange, although in the example shown in FIG. 8). In this case, the support 29 is for example in the form of a plate on which the preforms 2 rest by their rim 7. In this configuration, the brushes 19 extend above the plate 29 and rub against the body 4 and / or against the neck 5. Alternatively, the support 29 could be in the form of a pair of rails on which the preforms 2 would rest by their collar (when they are provided).
Dans ce deuxième mode de réalisation, le convoyeur 1 peut comprendre un guide 34 de fond qui s'étend à l'aplomb de la plaque 29, à une distance de celle-ci supérieure ou égale à une hauteur hors tout des préformes 2. Ce guide 34 limite le risque de basculement vers l'avant des préformes 2 sous l'effet des efforts de frottement induits par les brosses 2. Ce guide 34 peut être mobile pour accompagner les préformes le long de leur trajet et ainsi limiter encore le risque de basculement. Dans ce cas, le guide 34 peut se présenter sous forme d'une bande circulante sans fin montée entre deux poulies.  In this second embodiment, the conveyor 1 may comprise a bottom guide 34 which extends vertically above the plate 29, at a distance thereof greater than or equal to an overall height of the preforms 2. This guide 34 limits the risk of forward tilting of the preforms 2 under the effect of the friction forces induced by the brushes 2. This guide 34 can be movable to accompany the preforms along their path and thus further limit the risk of failover. In this case, the guide 34 may be in the form of an endless circulating band mounted between two pulleys.
Pour éviter en outre tout basculement latéral des préformes 2, des glissières 35 peuvent être prévues, positionnées de part et d'autre du corps 4 et/ou du col 5. Comme on le voit notamment sur la figure 1, la (ou chaque) courroie 11 peut comprendre des brosses 19 sur toute sa longueur. L'implantation des brosses 19 peut être verticale ou, en variante, oblique (c'est-à-dire que les différentes touffes peuvent être implantées en quinconce). En outre, le convoyeur 1 peut être équipé de galets 36 tendeurs pour mettre la (ou chaque) courroie 11 sous tension et ainsi éviter les ondulations dans le brin 24 longeant le trajet T et y maintenir une orientation constante des poils 21, au bénéfice de l'efficacité de l'entraînement des préformes 2. Chaque galet 36 tendeur est par exemple monté sur une platine 37 fixée de manière réglable transversalement sur le plateau 15 du convoyeur 1. To further avoid any lateral tilting of the preforms 2, slides 35 may be provided, positioned on either side of the body 4 and / or the neck 5. As seen in particular in Figure 1, the (or each) belt 11 may comprise brushes 19 along its length. The implantation of the brushes 19 may be vertical or, alternatively, oblique (that is to say that the different tufts can be staggered). In addition, the conveyor 1 can be equipped with tensioning rollers 36 to put the (or each) belt 11 under tension and thus avoid the undulations in the strand 24 along the path T and maintain a constant orientation of the bristles 21, for the benefit of the effectiveness of the drive of the preforms 2. Each roller 36 tensioner is for example mounted on a plate 37 fixed in a transversely adjustable manner on the plate 15 of the conveyor 1.
Diverses dispositions alternatives ou supplémentaires peuvent être prévues.  Various alternative or additional provisions may be provided.
Premièrement, les brosses 19 pourraient être montées sur plusieurs courroies superposées indépendantes, qui circuleraient par exemple à des vitesses différentes de sorte à maintenir un frottement permanent des brosses 19 avec la paroi 3 latérale des préformes.  Firstly, the brushes 19 could be mounted on several independent superimposed belts, which would circulate for example at different speeds so as to maintain a permanent friction of the brushes 19 with the lateral wall 3 of the preforms.
Deuxièmement, le convoyeur 1 peut être équipé, comme illustré sur la figure 1, d'un ou plusieurs dispositif(s) 38 de nettoyage (ou décontamination) des brosses 19, fonctionnant par exemple par aspiration, par exposition aux ultraviolets ou à l'air ionisé. Il en résulte une dépollution du convoyeur 1 (et donc des préformes 2), et une conformité de celui-ci aux normes sanitaires en vigueur.  Secondly, the conveyor 1 may be equipped, as illustrated in FIG. 1, with one or more device (s) 38 for cleaning (or decontamination) brushes 19, functioning for example by suction, exposure to ultraviolet light or ionized air. This results in a depollution of the conveyor 1 (and therefore the preforms 2), and a compliance of the latter with the sanitary standards in force.
Troisièmement, le convoyeur 1 peut être équipé d'au moins un éjecteur de préforme, permettant d'extraire du flux de préformes circulant dans le convoyeur 1 toute préforme qui serait mal orientée et risquerait de provoquer un blocage ou un entremêlement des préformes 2 le long du trajet, susceptible d'abîmer ou de casser l'un au moins des composants du convoyeur 1. Cet éjecteur se présenterait par exemple sous forme d'une section mobile du support 29, qui formerait une trappe escamotable commandée par la détection d'une ou plusieurs préforme(s) mal orientée(s).  Thirdly, the conveyor 1 may be equipped with at least one preform ejector, making it possible to extract from the stream of preforms circulating in the conveyor 1 any preform that is badly oriented and may cause a blockage or intermingling of the preforms 2 along of the path, likely to damage or break at least one of the components of the conveyor 1. This ejector would be for example in the form of a movable section of the support 29, which would form a retractable door controlled by the detection of a or several misformed preform (s).

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1. Procédé de transport de préformes (2) de récipients en matière plastique ayant chacune une paroi (3) tubulaire définissant un corps (4) et un col (5) séparés par une collerette (8) qui fait radialement saillie de la paroi (3) au moyen d'un dispositif (1) comprenant un élément (11) circulant sans fin ayant une face (16) externe et portant une série de brosses (19) qui s'étendent en saillie de la face (16) externe, aptes à venir au contact des préformes (2) pour entraîner celles-ci par frottement le long d'un trajet (T), le dispositif (1) comprenant d'une paire de rails (31) écartés l'un de l'autre, qui définissent conjointement au moins une partie du trajet (T) des préformes (2), ces rails (31) ayant des faces (30) d'appui coplanaires pour la suspension par leur collerette (8) des préformes (2) orientées col en haut, ce procédé étant caractérisé en ce que les préformes (2) sont guidées au moyen d'un guide (32) de col qui s'étend à l'aplomb des rails (31) à une distance de ceux-ci supérieure ou égale à une hauteur du col (5) des préformes (2). A method of transporting preforms (2) of plastic containers each having a tubular wall (3) defining a body (4) and a neck (5) separated by a flange (8) which projects radially from the wall ( 3) by means of a device (1) comprising an endlessly circulating member (11) having an outer face (16) and carrying a series of brushes (19) projecting from the outer face (16), adapted to come into contact with the preforms (2) to drive them by friction along a path (T), the device (1) comprising a pair of rails (31) spaced apart from each other , which jointly define at least part of the path (T) of the preforms (2), these rails (31) having coplanar bearing faces (30) for the suspension by their collar (8) of the preforms (2) oriented at the top, this method being characterized in that the preforms (2) are guided by means of a collar guide (32) which extends vertically above the rails (31) at a distance from them greater than or equal to a height of the neck (5) of the preforms (2).
2. Procédé (1) selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce qu'au moins une partie des brosses (19) s'étendent sous les rails (31) pour venir au contact du corps (4) des préformes (2). 2. Method (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least a portion of the brushes (19) extend under the rails (31) to engage the body (4) of the preforms (2).
3. Procédé (1) selon la revendication 1 ou la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que le guide (32) de col se présente sous forme d'une barre à section rectangulaire, qui présente une face (33) inférieure plane distante d'un buvant (7) des préformes (2) de quelques dixièmes de millimètres.  3. Method (1) according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the neck guide (32) is in the form of a rectangular section bar, which has a plane lower face (33) remote from a rim (7) of the preforms (2) of a few tenths of a millimeter.
4. Procédé (1) selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les préformes (2) sont entraînées au moyen de deux éléments (11) circulants munis de brosses (19) et ayant, le long du trajet (T), des brins (24) parallèles pour entraîner conjointement les préformes (2) par frottement.  4. Method (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the preforms (2) are driven by means of two circulating elements (11) provided with brushes (19) and having, along the path (T) , strands (24) parallel to jointly drive the preforms (2) by friction.
5. Procédé (1) selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que l'élément (11) circulant s'appuie, sur une partie au moins du trajet (T), sur un guide (25) latéral par une face (16) interne opposée à la face (17) externe. 5. Method (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the element (11) flowing rests, on at least part of the path (T), on a guide (25) side by a side (16) internal opposite the outer face (17).
6. Procédé (1) selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que chaque brosse (19) comprend une rangée de touffes (20) de poils (21) superposées. 6. Method (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each brush (19) comprises a row of tufts (20) of bristles (21) superimposed.
7. Procédé (1) selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que chaque élément circulant (11) comprend des brosses (19) sur toute sa longueur.  7. Method (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each circulating element (11) comprises brushes (19) along its entire length.
EP15808703.1A 2014-11-10 2015-11-04 Brush conveyor for transporting preforms Active EP3218289B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP23176452.3A EP4234448A3 (en) 2014-11-10 2015-11-04 Brush conveyor for transporting preforms

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1460870A FR3028254B1 (en) 2014-11-10 2014-11-10 PROCESS FOR TRANSPORTING PREFORMS OF PLASTIC CONTAINERS
PCT/FR2015/052978 WO2016075389A1 (en) 2014-11-10 2015-11-04 Brush conveyor for transporting preforms

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EP4234448A3 (en) 2023-09-20
CN107074447A (en) 2017-08-18
EP3218289B1 (en) 2023-06-07
US20170320670A1 (en) 2017-11-09
EP4234448A2 (en) 2023-08-30
FR3028254B1 (en) 2019-04-12
FR3028254A1 (en) 2016-05-13
US10035655B2 (en) 2018-07-31
CN107074447B (en) 2019-08-13
WO2016075389A1 (en) 2016-05-19

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